Great Dane Lifespan: How Long Do They Live? 

 

Highlights:

• Great Danes have big personalities but short lifespans. 
• Supporting a Great Dane so they can live the longest time possible means routine veterinary care, high-quality food, and exercise. 
• In addition to lifestyle, you can support your Great Dane by offering Longevity15, a cellular support supplement that can stack the deck in your dog’s favor.

The only scary thing about a Great Dane is their sheer size. These dogs are known for being loyal, easy-going, and loving, earning them the nickname “gentle giant.” While they may be some of the largest dogs in the world, they have some of the shortest lifespans. 

We’ll talk about the expected lifespan of Great Danes and factors that affect it. We’ll also cover steps to take to give your Great Dane the best possible chance of living the longest and healthiest life possible.

How Long Do Great Danes Live?

Large-breed dogs have shorter lifespans than small-breed dogs. Great Danes are classified as extra-large breeds, and that designation effectively shortens their lifespan even further. Great Danes have a life expectancy of just seven to 10 years. Some may live to be 11 or 12, but those are exceptions, not the rule. 

What causes the Great Dane to be so short-lived? Experts believe it is likely due to their size. Extra-large dogs age faster than smaller dogs, and the wear and tear on their bodies happens quickly. Additionally, Great Danes are more vulnerable to certain illnesses.

Life Stages of a Great Dane

You may not have more than a decade with your big puppy. Here’s how to make the most of every moment. 

Puppyhood (Up to 18 months)

Large and extra-large breed dogs remain in puppyhood for up to 18 months. Small and medium-breed dogs are only considered puppies until 12 months of age. In the first year of your Great Dane’s life, expect them to put on the pounds. 

They can gain up to 100 pounds in their first year of life. During this time, proper nutrition is really important. Too much calcium can lead to joint problems. Your dog’s veterinarian is a good resource for helping you choose the right food for them. 

Adulthood (18 months to 6 years)

Your Great Dane’s adult life is the sweet spot where they will likely be the healthiest and most energetic. Most Great Danes won’t experience health issues during this time, provided they are well-cared for. 

Give your dog plenty of exercise, routine veterinary care, and high-quality food to ensure they are thriving. It’s also important to give them mental stimulation with games, toys, or trips to the dog park.

The Golden Years (6+ years)

It doesn’t seem fair that your dog should be a senior at just six years of age, but because of their short lifespans, Great Danes are considered senior dogs early. It’s during these years that your Great Dane may experience health issues. Screening for them early can ensure your dog gets the treatment they need.

Common Health Issues 

Great Danes suffer from some known health issues due to their breed size and type. These include:

• Dilated Cardiomyopathy. A dog that has this condition has an enlarged heart that has trouble pumping blood to the rest of the body. This condition can be fatal.
• Bloat. Bloat is a collection of gas in a dog’s stomach, causing it to twist. This is fatal if not treated within a few hours. Signs can include restlessness, a distended stomach, and an inability to vomit. 
• Hip dysplasia. This is a hip joint issue that causes pain and limping. Eventually, hip dysplasia may lead to more serious joint and back issues.
• Eye conditions. Great Danes are susceptible to eye issues like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which, if left untreated, may lead to vision loss and blindness.
• Cancer. Although any breed can develop cancer, Great Danes are particularly prone to bone cancer. Treatment is available, but early detection is important. 

Despite these challenges, your Great Dane can still live a long, fulfilling life. You can take actionable steps to support your dog’s wellness.

Supporting Your Great Dane

You can’t control your dog’s genetics, but you can take steps to ensure that the life they live, even if it is short, is healthy. With the right lifestyle choices, your Great Dane could surprise you by outliving its life expectancy.

• Feed your dog high-quality food. Great Danes have specific nutrient needs and different food requirements from small breeds. Ask their veterinarian if their food is meeting those needs.
• Give them plenty of exercise. Great Danes need regular exercise, but keep it gentle. Excessive jumping can put pressure on their joints.
• Watch their weight. Great Danes can put on weight easily. Excess weight can lead to health problems and joint issues. If your Great Dane needs to lose a few pounds, consider a weight loss formula kibble available from their veterinarian.
• Never skip veterinary care. Early detection is important for the health issues that a Great Dane may face. Make sure to get your dog in for routine veterinary care so they have the best advantage in terms of monitoring and treating for illness.
• Try a supplement. Want to go the extra mile to support your dog’s longevity? Longevity15 is a daily dog supplement that supports healthy aging from nose to tail. Longevity15 contains C15:0, a powerful fatty acid that helps support your dog’s cells, enhances cardiovascular function, helps support glucose handling, encourages healthy liver function, and promotes strong, healthy red blood cells. Giving your dog Longevity15 once per day supports your efforts to keep your dog strong, healthy, and sharp. 

These small steps can add up and give your Great Dane the benefit of aging healthfully. Giving your Great Dane Longevity15 is one of the smartest decisions you can make as a pet owner, and the best way to support them from a broad foundation.

FAQs

What is the main cause of death for Great Danes?

The most common cause of death for Great Danes is bloat. This can cause serious harm in a matter of hours. Early signs include a distended abdomen, wrenching, drooling, or abdominal pain.

What is the number one killer of Great Danes?

Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is the number-one killer of Danes. Owners should educate themselves to recognize the signs that bloat could be happening and what to do if so. Signs include a swollen abdomen, failed attempts to vomit, drooling, and whining. 

Can Great Danes be 200 pounds?

Yes, a Great Dane can weigh 200 pounds. The average adult Great Dane weighs anywhere between 100 and 200 pounds. 

Big Love, Short Time

Making every moment count with your Great Dane is easy. Give your Great Dane the best opportunity to have more time for more moments by taking excellent care of them and offering Longevity15 with their food. With the right care and love, your Great Dane can love more, move more easily, and live a little longer. 

Sources:

Great Dane Life Span & Health Issues | American Kennel Club

Dog Eye Problems | PetMD

A Very big dog problem: New study identifies alarming bone cancer risk in giant dogs | Royal Veterinary College

Pentadecanoic Acid (C15:0), an Essential Fatty Acid, Shares Clinically Relevant Cell-Based Activities with Leading Longevity-Enhancing Compounds